Klarinet Archive - Posting 000115.txt from 2003/08

From: =?iso-8859-1?q?Tony=20Pay?= <tony_pay@-----.uk>
Subj: Re: [kl] Pulling out at the middle joint
Date: Wed, 6 Aug 2003 19:32:28 -0400

--- CLARK FOBES <reedman@-----.com> wrote:

> Not only is pulling at the middle joint of the clarinet a GOOD idea I
> think it is a must for most Buffet R-13 clarinets. Due to the tuning
> parameters that Buffet has chosen and the rather large diameter of the
> C-C#-D tone holes in the clarion register these tones are sharp.
>
> However, I believe that one MUST use rings. (See my article on "Tuning and
> Voicing the Clarinet" at www.clarkwfobes.com.
>
> I use a standard Buffet .5mm tuning ring in the center tenon (the same
> rings you one uses for the barrel joint) and then make a ring to go around
> the tenon of the upper joint to take up the space that is created where the
> joints meet. This outer ring is actually the most important. An outside
> ring keeps the joints stable so that the 1+1 does not constantly go in and
> out of adjustment. The outside tuning ring is easy to make from 1/32 cork
> or Valentino synthetic cork. I glue it with contact cement.
>
> You will notice a good 5 cents change in pitch in the tuning of the lower
> joint. This may not be enough and tuning material may be necessary in some
> tone holes. (This is thoroughly discussed in my article).
>
> Creating lacunae ( gaps between joints) has interesting effects. In the
> case of the barrel joint this can cause the throat E and F to move
> inordinately flat. However, a lacunae in the middle joint can often create
> a nice resistance or "cushion" for some of the tone in the clarion near the
> middle joint. I have experimented with and without rings to take up the
> space when I pull and generally I prefer no space. I have glued the tuning
> rings in as a permanent part of both my A and Bb clarinet.

I *love* this sort of post. It gives technical detail, allows you plenty of
room to disagree in your own particular case, and gives the lie to those who
maintain -- for their own purposes? -- that what they say is more important
than what you can discover for yourself.

Bravo, Clark.

By the way, I just this evening had to play a recital in Siena, in extremely
high temperatures, though not on a Buffet, and found myself experimenting with
all the techniques that Clark describes above, apart from the 'outer' ring.

(*And* using one of his mouthpieces!-)

Tony

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